Taught by renowned pianist
John O'Conor
Join famed Beethoven interpreter John O’Conor for an in-depth lesson on one of the greatest sonatas ever written: the mighty “Appassionata.” In this video, O’Conor shares his insights for every bar of the dramatic first movement.<br><br>He introduces this sonata as one of Beethoven’s personal favorites, and often relates the musical content to the composer’s personality and personal struggles.<br><br>Throughout the lesson, O’Conor brings close attention to the beauty and variety of the harmony, finds meaning in expressive indications, shares tips for reliable and powerful fingering as well as redistribution between the hands (even in trills!), sheds light on the taut rhythmic framework, and attends to Beethoven’s long and coloristic pedal markings. Most importantly, every detail helps communicate the drama of this work and empowers you to find an interpretation and a narrative that you find meaningful.
"Appassionata" Sonata, Op. 57 – II. Andante con moto
Join famed Beethoven interpreter John O’Conor for an in-depth lesson on the beautiful slow movement of the “Appassionata.” O’Conor offers straightforward tips to make your playing more meaningful and expressive: understanding the variation structure; playing with precise rhythm and rests; finding your own personal nuances of dynamic and phrasing; and “orchestrating” the music colorfully, as if it were played by string quartet or a symphony orchestra.
"Appassionata" Sonata, Op. 57 – III. Allegro ma non troppo – Presto
Join famed Beethoven interpreter John O’Conor for an in-depth lesson on one of the greatest sonatas ever written: the mighty “Appassionata.” In this video, O’Conor shares phrase-by-phrase advice for the thrilling final movement.
O’Conor leaves no stone unturned, walking through each section and sharing his solutions for every tricky figure while always keeping in mind Beethoven’s highly specific expressive indications. He offers essential insights into issues of fingering, articulation, rhythm, pedaling, distribution between the hands, mental “stops” to break up awkward groupings, and how all this helps hammer home Beethoven’s immensely dramatic message.
Of particular interest is O’Conor’s step-by-step approach to practicing the endless 16th notes: very slowly and very consciously, followed by 6 different rhythms that train your hand and brain to navigate all the twists and turns with evenness and fluency.
"Appassionata" Sonata, Op. 57 – I. Allegro assai
Join famed Beethoven interpreter John O’Conor for an in-depth lesson on one of the greatest sonatas ever written: the mighty “Appassionata.” In this video, O’Conor shares his insights for every bar of the dramatic first movement.
He introduces this sonata as one of Beethoven’s personal favorites, and often relates the musical content to the composer’s personality and personal struggles.
Throughout the lesson, O’Conor brings close attention to the beauty and variety of the harmony, finds meaning in expressive indications, shares tips for reliable and powerful fingering as well as redistribution between the hands (even in trills!), sheds light on the taut rhythmic framework, and attends to Beethoven’s long and coloristic pedal markings. Most importantly, every detail helps communicate the drama of this work and empowers you to find an interpretation and a narrative that you find meaningful.
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Unlock Course →Irish pianist John O'Conor's unanimous 1st Prize at the International Beethoven Piano Competition in Vienna in 1973 opened the door to a critically acclaimed career as an international soloist, recording artist, and sought-after teacher.
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